Knit-Alongs

In September 2012 we began hosting monthly Knit-Alongs on our Ravelry group page. For each project, we post the pattern link, yarn suggestions, and provide ongoing support within the forum. All those who show us their finished project by the end of the knit-along are entered into a draw to win a $25 Espace Tricot Gift Card! Please note that we still continue to provide in-store support for knit-along projects on Thursday evenings for those who can make it in to see us!

Summer 2013 Knit-Along

Martina writes: “Viajante is basically a very long and narrow triangular tube. Used flat, you can wrap it around your neck several times or put it on your shoulders as you would with a shawl. Open it up at the lace border and pull it over your head, and it will keep your entire upper body warm. If you wish, you can use it to add a dramatic asymmetrical silhouette to your wardrobe. Best thing: If you forgot your hat, you can just pull the narrow garter stitch part over your head and hide your ears from the cold. It is so versatile you will not want to leave the house without it! Viajante has a clean, classic look in stockinette stitch that is particularly pretty in a slightly variegated, very light yarn. The lace mesh border is really easy to knit (even for beginners) but can be replaced by a more complicated lace pattern or a simple ruffle if you prefer. It is a long, relaxing knit without any purl stitches that yields a spectacular result.”

Viajante has been an extremely popular knit since being published to Ravelry in February – more than 1000 users have already posted their finished projects! Although the pattern calls for a lace weight yarn, I just finished a fingering weight version in Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light for a cozier more casual look (see photos below). Because of the heavier yarn choice, I modified the decrease rate slightly to reduce bulk at the neck and produce a wider tube (mods are listed on our Ravery project page here). Lisa has just cast on a laceweight version using SweetGeorgia Yarns CashSilk Lace – yum!

This was a much faster knit than anticipated and took about two weeks to complete knitting mostly in the evenings with longer stretches on the weekends. The fact that it is worked in the round (no purling!) helps it move along quickly. Everyone’s time available for knitting being different, though, we’re giving you lots of time to work on this one – the Knit-Along begins June 15th and runs two months, ending on August 15th.

To join, simply click here to visit the Summer KAL thread in the Espace Tricot Ravelry Group and introduce yourself.

You can jump into the Knit-Along any time – if you post a picture of your finished Viajante to the thread by August 15th, we’ll enter your name into a draw for a $25 Espace Tricot Gift Card! You can also submit your finished project by sending us a photo via e-mail or stopping by the store.

Previous 2013 Knit-Alongs

Augustine Shawlette

Our May Knit-Along project is the Augustine Shawlette by Valdis Vrang. A bright and cheerful lightweight accessory for spring and summer layering. Sample is knit with Silver Label from Tanis Fiber Arts (100% Mulberry Silk). The Augustine Shawlettecan be purchased for $3.50 through Ravelry.

Our April Knit-Along project is Flow by popular designer Norah Gaughan. This pattern is described on Ravelry as “an easy tank with fitted top and gracious fullness at the hem”. Knit with Berroco Seduce, a corded blend of silk, linen, rayon, and nylon, this stylish top floats and shimmers but can be dressed up or down depending on your mood and the occasion. Flowcan be downloaded for free from Ravelry here.

February’s knit-along project is your choice of one of these gorgeous kerchief-style cowl patterns from Pam Powers (Cowboy Cowl / Cowgirl Cowl). Both are knitted flat from the top down and fasten in the back with buttons and crocheted button loops. Fun and stylish these are quick yet interesting knits which will be ready just in time to replace your big wooly neckwear come early spring!

January 2013

(Photos: Churchmouse Yarns & Teas)

The Smocked Lace Wrap and Shrug is not only beautiful and cozy, it’s also incredibly versatile. From the Churchmouse Yarns website: “Jennifer Evans designed this piece with her characteristic mix of romantic and rustic. The vintage smocked lace stitch is easier than it looks. And the simple rectangular shape can be worn as a poncho, a large cowl, or simply a scarf. The shrug, seamed into sleeves, drapes across your shoulders and stays in place with no fuss. Wear it over a pretty dress, or jeans and a T-shirt.”

2012 Knit-Alongs

November 2012

(Photos: susieQ75)

Ceramic Flowers is an infinity-style lace cowl knit with DK or Worsted weight yarn. It’s knit in the round and is essentially comprised of three lace flower sections. Both chart and written instructions are included and the pattern is available in English and French. Gorgeous!

Color Affection by Veera Välimäki is a striped, top-down, garter stitch wrap/shawl written for two yarn weights (fingering and lace). This design has been burning upRavelry since last December (over 6000 finished projects have been posted already!) and it’s no secret why – it has a many of the ingredients knitters love; not only is it incredibly fun to plan and knit but the stripes keep the motivation level up all the way through which means you will probably find yourself finishing this much faster than you expect!

September 2012

The Holden Shawlette by Mindy Wilkes is a beautiful and straightforward little shawl. It’s a simple triangle lace project ideal for novice lace knitters but also satisfying for the more advanced. A lovely delicate accessory that can be dressed up or down and easily worn as scarf or shawl.

Décalage by Julie Hoover is aptly described by the designer as both modern and stylish. Knit using two colours each of Habu’s fine merino and silk stainless steel, this scarf is an exquisite study in colour blending and texture. Azzu’s Shawl by Emma Fassio is a long slim shawl with a light summery feel. Knit top-down – it’s worked from the center back outwards. Because of it’s ample length this piece can also be twisted and tied around the neck and worn as a scarf. Weekend Wrap by Julie Weisenberger is a surprisingly elegant vest / wrap which really can be completed in a weekend. Knit with 12 mm needles, the effect is lacy without the need for yarnovers and pattern repeats. Throw this over a t-shirt, tunic, or blouse and wait for the compliments! New York Cardigan by Erin Harper is a lightweight, versatile cardigan designed to be worn over a tee or camisole making it a perfect layering piece for spring and summer.

March 2012

(Photos: Churchmouse Yarns & Teas / Ysolda Teague / Mary Annarella)

Easy Folded Poncho by Churchmouse Yarns and Teas is a classic yet casual piece which is easy to knit and perfect for layering through early spring days and cool summer evenings. Ishbel by Ysolda Teague is a beautiful lace shawl which begins simply with a solid stockinette centre and is then edged with a lovely vine pattern and scalloped points. Simplicity Cardigan by Mary Annarella is a luxurious lightweight cardigan with longer fronts that can be worn open or tied loosely in front.

February 2012

State Street Cowl by Pam Allen is a great piece which can be worn worn down over the shoulders or as a traditional cowl perfect for braving the elements. Chevron Colour Block Blanket by Espace Tricot is a luxurious throw knit using 4 shades of Cascade Eco Cloud – a soft 70% merino / 30% alpaca blend. Astor by Norah Gaughan is a gorgeous cardigan with a stunning cabled front. It is designed to be somewhat oversized and features shortened sleeves and deep pockets.

January 2012

Flair by Wendy Bernard, is a great top-down cardigan with subtle flaring in the body and sleeves. Hawthorne by Susanna IC is a stunning and versatile shawl / wrap / scarf which is knitted in one piece beginning with the lace edge. Shaelyn by Leila Raabe is a beautiful top-down, center-out triangular shawl easy enough for beginner lace knitters.

Projects for our next Knit-Along have finally been chosen and we are busily knitting up the samples. After the flurry of holiday gift knitting has passed, why not settle into working up something cozy for yourself? Try Anne Hanson’s Hypoteneuse (scarf or wap version), the easy sideways-knit Elysium by TroubleDog Design, or the classic but modern Textured Shawl by Orlane Designs.

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As much a gathering place as a retail space, Espace Tricot's inspiring atmosphere caters to fiber lovers of all ages and skill levels. The store stocks a large and carefully curated selection of yarns and fibers, notions, accessories, books, and patterns. Espace Tricot also offers many classes and workshops where new knitters, crocheters, and spinners can get started and more advanced customers can hone their skills.